UPDATE: Four rideshare drivers have been federally indicted for allegedly kidnapping and sexually assaulting passengers in the Houston area. This shocking development underscores a severe and growing safety concern for riders, especially in the wake of previous incidents.
Authorities have identified the accused as Abdou Mbacke, Cesar Martell, Janaka Manatunga, and Barney Flores. If convicted, they could face life sentences. The FBI reports that three of the men have already been arrested, while Mbacke remains on the run. Federal prosecutors are urging potential victims to come forward and report their experiences.
During a news conference on Thursday, U.S. Attorney Nicholas Ganjei emphasized that convenience should not come at the cost of safety. “When a driver abuses his trust by using his position of power to sexually assault a passenger, they cease being providers and become predators,” Ganjei stated. This urgent call to action is part of the newly launched Operation Light House, aimed at tackling the troubling trend of sexual assaults committed by rideshare drivers.
Court documents reveal alarming details: Flores is accused of assaulting a passenger in May 2025, and Mbacke is charged with kidnapping a woman and taking her to a motel for sexual assault in December 2023. Manatunga faces charges for preventing a passenger from leaving and assaulting her in April 2025. Martell has been indicted on two counts of kidnapping, with allegations of assault and strangulation in incidents occurring in 2021 and 2023.
The investigation highlights the serious implications of these crimes, with FBI Houston Assistant Special Agent Ryan Whalen stressing the agency’s commitment: “We will find you. We will arrest you, and we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”
Officials are also keen to explore other dimensions of this issue. Ganjei noted that they are equally interested in cases where passengers have assaulted drivers, urging anyone with information to reach out.
The FBI encourages victims of rideshare-related assaults to contact them at 1-800-CALL-FBI or visit Tips.FBI.Gov. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated; the safety of rideshare passengers is at stake, and authorities are determined to bring justice to those affected.
As this case develops, it serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by rideshare users. The community is urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious behavior. Follow updates from this developing story to ensure you have the latest information on this alarming issue.
